Bombax ceiba (Red Silk-cotton Tree)

Native from tropical and subtropical Asia through New Guinea to northern Australia, this large deciduous tree develops a broad crown and stout conical prickles on young trunks. Its large red flowers appear on bare branches before new foliage develops and produce abundant nectar. Five thick petals curve outward around numerous stamens. The fruits are capsules containing seeds surrounded by silky fibers; this floss is used to stuff pillows and mattresses. Flowers are also used in soups in parts of its native range. It has been introduced to parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. Photographed in Colombia.